Symptom 8: Fainting or Syncope: AHCM’s Dramatic Manifestation
Syncope, or fainting, is one of the more dramatic manifestations of AHCM. It’s like the condition’s grand announcement, an unplanned descent into darkness that can be terrifying for both the individual and the onlookers.
The primary culprit behind syncope in AHCM is the irregular heart rhythms, or arrhythmias, common in this condition. These arrhythmias, coupled with the reduced blood flow to the brain due to the thickened heart muscle, can lead to a sudden loss of consciousness or fainting.
Each episode of fainting is like a blackout, a temporary pause in the individual’s conscious world. While the frequency and severity of these episodes can vary, they often indicate a severe progression of AHCM.
Syncope in AHCM is more than a dramatic display; it’s a critical symptom indicating the severity of the condition. Recognizing and addressing it promptly can help in mitigating the risks associated with AHCM, making it a crucial aspect of this condition’s management. (8)